Kessié’s Intent to Rejoin Serie A

After spending three years in Saudi Arabia, Franck Kessié is eager to make a comeback to Europe, specifically Serie A. As clubs are gearing up to conclude the season with strong performances, preparations for the upcoming transfer window are already in full swing. This is particularly evident for players whose contracts are set to expire, and Kessié, with his contract at Al-Ahli ending on June 30, finds himself in a pivotal position.

During his time in Saudi Arabia, Kessié has developed aspirations to return to one of Europe’s competitive leagues. Reports indicate that Italy is at the top of his list, a country where he has previously enjoyed success while playing for teams like Cesena, Atalanta, and Milan. The decision he faces is crucial, as it will encompass not just financial aspects but also personal considerations and the level of competition his next team can offer.

Implications for His Future

At 30 years old, Kessié is still keen to compete at a high level, seeking a league that can challenge his skills. The coming months will be determinant in shaping his professional trajectory as he weighs his options carefully. Several factors are likely to influence his decision, including the competitive nature of the leagues and the clubs available.

Interest from Major Clubs

Juventus has been monitoring Kessié for some time and sees him as a potential target for a free transfer this June. The club’s management previously met with Kessié’s agent in January, and they are keen to secure his services to strengthen their midfield. However, they are not the sole interest group; other prominent clubs are also in discussions regarding the Ivorian midfielder, recognizing his capacity to make a significant impact in Serie A.

Inter Milan’s Consideration

Inter Milan is another club that has expressed interest in Kessié. This interest was previously noted during the summer of 2025, and the club is still evaluating the benefits of adding a versatile midfielder to their lineup. While they have looked into other players, such as Manu Koné, who was valued at €40 million during negotiations with Roma, securing Kessié on a free transfer presents an appealing opportunity. Inter has engaged in discussions with Kessié’s entourage in the past, even prior to his transition from Milan to Barcelona, demonstrating a longstanding interest in his abilities.

Kessié’s attributes, both physical and technical, are highly regarded by top clubs, making him an attractive option in the transfer market.

Kessié’s Wage Expectations

One of the crucial points in Kessié’s potential transfer is his wage expectations. During his tenure at Al-Ahli, Kessié earned around €14 million annually, a salary that significantly exceeds typical figures in European football, especially in Italy. While he is prepared to negotiate and reduce his financial expectations, it is understood that he would not be willing to accept a salary below €5 million per season. This figure, while still considerable, remains within the financial capabilities of top-tier Italian clubs.

The Path Ahead

As Kessié approaches the conclusion of his contract with Al-Ahli, the landscape of his potential return to Serie A becomes increasingly complex. Clubs such as Juventus and Inter are weighing the financial implications of acquiring a player of his caliber. Kessié’s decision will hinge on the balance of his competitive ambitions and the financial realities of the clubs pursuing him. The coming weeks will likely reveal his intentions and the clubs that will enter serious negotiations.

Earlier we wrote about Возвращение Гарри Магуайра: новый шанс в сборной Англии, Гаррі Магуайр повертається до збірної Англії and Harry Maguire Recalled to England Squad Ahead of World Cup.